New Director of Library Services

Sierra Madre, CA – After an extensive recruitment process, the City of Sierra Madre is honored to announce that Carolyn Thomas has been selected as the City's new Director of Library Services.

Carolyn Thomas comes to Sierra Madre with a rich background in public library services. She has recently worked as a Library Services Manager for the Anaheim Public Library system. While in Anaheim, Carolyn oversaw the opening of a new youth services facility at the East Anaheim Branch Library. Carolyn was instrumental in coordinating the spring 2011 opening of the Ponderosa Library, a joint-use school/public library, as well as, successfully writing a Family Place Grant for new parenting programs at Anaheim's Sunkist Library. Prior to serving as Anaheim's Library Services Manager, Carolyn worked as a Senior Librarian at the Glendora Public Library coordinating children's, teen, and adult programs.

Ms. Thomas has a Master of Library Science degree from San Jose State University, and she is a member of the California Library Association, Public Library Association and American Library Association. She looks forward to utilizing her expertise in navigating the Sierra Madre Public Library through the evolving trends of electronic publishing, emerging technology, and changing community demographics to continue the rich tradition of library programs and services that are at the heart of the Sierra Madre community.

Carolyn Thomas will begin her tenure with the City of Sierra Madre on November 14, 2011. "I am delighted to accept this new position at Sierra Madre and look forward to meeting the staff and community members" Carolyn stated. She encourages everyone to stop by the library, say hi, and "tell me what you are reading!"

Carolyn's husband David, an engineer with the Aerospace Corporation, formerly a JPL employee, has been known to offer "Elementary Optics", "Build Your Own Camera" and "Paper Airplane" programs at libraries where Carolyn has worked. Together, they reside in Glendora where they raised their two sons Matthew and Mark, who are now both married. Carolyn enjoys reading – and recommends "State of Wonder" by Ann Patchett - gardening, being with family and friends, and traveling.

City Manager Elaine Aguilar stated, "Carolyn's breath of experience, expertise and friendly personality make her a great addition to the Sierra Madre management team and the community as a whole."